Help for aching Spurs fans

Evenings aren’t the same this time of year without the Spurs in the playoffs! You and I feel it, and don’t think local restaurants and bars aren’t feeling it, too. There is a consolation though. Challenging times call for creative measures, and some of SA’s finest have stepped up.

You don’t have to stay home while the East and West Coast fans are out celebrating.

Brasserie Pavil, voted SA’s best new restaurant by the SA Express-News, has an innovative twist on the traditional Happy Hour. Beer flights! I’ve never been to one to drown my Spurs sorrows in beer, but I enjoy these.

You select four beers from the TWELVE they have on draft. (Ever tried the beer from Blanco?) The presentation is slick guys…cute, ladies! And BP’s ‘pommes frites’ — incredibly delicious French fries — can come with. Try the raspberry beer and the chocolate side by side — very good.

Now for a Spurs game night substitute in a place where the Spurs sometimes hang, head to Morton’s the Steakhouse downtown. From 5-7 they serve FREE filet mignon sliders, and they are delicious. Also, you can get a glass of wine for $5. Sit back on their comfy couch and watch Kobe and yes, wish you were watching Tim instead.

And if you’re in the mood for an incredible view and are shunning the playoffs altogether, head to Aldaco’s Stone Oak. From 3-6 p.m., Blanca’s incredible margaritas are $3.

Step up to her award-winning Cucumber-tini or my favorite, her Spicy Margarita, for an additional $2.

Just some ideas to ease the pain, Spurs fans. You can check out all of these Happy Hour foods and drinks on my Web site, www.goodtastewithtanji.com. While you’re there, sign up for my newsletter for special deals, invitations to our private events and more!